One look at the standings today and its plain as day, the Canucks let a big lead get away from them. However, cheering for the Canucks as long as I have or you have will show that it's always been done this way: difficult and agonizing.

The Canucks head to the land of BBQ ribs, brisket and basically any meal that begs for BBQ sauce: St. Louis; a road city most welcome. Vancouver's road record is pretty good this year (22-12-3) and with the Canucks taking the last two games against the Blues, tonight should follow suit. After losing to the Stars in OT on Saturday, every point is crucial with LA and Calgary breathing down the Canucks neck. Their breath is stinky like no breakfast, 2 coffees, no brushing teeth breath. It's bad. They need some distance.

Mathew Barzal is an exceptional young hockey player. Size concerns and a significant injury have him lagging behind the top of the draft in terms of buzz, but don't be fooled about him. Young Barzal is among the very best players available in this year's draft.